Polk City, IA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
6,037
3.5% year-over-year change
Median household income
$164,389/yr
0.8% year-over-year change
Housing units
2,231
8.3% year-over-year change

Polk City population

How many people live in Polk City

Polk City is home to 6,037 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 51.2% of Polk City locals are male, and 48.8% are female.

Total population
6,037
3.5% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
51.2%
3,092
Female
48.8%
2,945
Value Percent YoY change
Male 3,092 51.2% 2.0%
Female 2,945 48.8% 5.1%
A higher population often means more rental variety and livelier areas. The gender balance—how many men live here compared to women—can reveal a lot about the community and the lifestyles of its residents. Use this info to get a sense of the area's pace and personality.

Age demographics

The median age in Polk City is 39, with the population distributed as follows: about 23.6% are children under 15, then 8.6% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 24.8% of the population, while another 28.6% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 14.5% are 65 or older.

Median age
39.1
Age breakdown
Under 15
23.6%
15 to 24
8.6%
25 to 44
24.8%
45 to 64
28.6%
Over 65
14.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 1,425 23.6% -4.2%
15 to 24 516 8.6% 11.0%
25 to 44 1,498 24.8% -8.7%
45 to 64 1,724 28.6% 4.5%
Over 65 874 14.5% 47.9%
The age composition helps you get insight into who lives in the area. A younger population might mean a more active, fast-paced vibe, while an older one could suggest a quieter, slower lifestyle. If there's a balanced makeup, you’re likely to find a variety of services, housing types, and community spaces that cater to different life stages.

Racial makeup

In Polk City, 98.6% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.4% have gained naturalized citizenship. There’s also a share of 3% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
98.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.4%
Non-citizens
0%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 5,953 98.6% 3.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 84 1.4% 16.7%
Racial breakdown
White
96.4%
Black or African American
0.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0%
Asian
0%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
3%
Other
0.4%
Value Percent
White 5,820 96.4%
Black or African American 10 0.2%
Two or more races 182 3%
Other 25 0.4%

Households in Polk City

A peek inside Polk City households

Polk City has 2,184 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 81.2% are families, while the remaining 18.8% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
2,184
7.5% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
411
Family households
1,773
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 411 18.8% 22.3%
Family households 1,773 81.2% 4.5%
The mix between family and non-family households gives a glimpse into daily life. A higher percentage of families might mean more parks and schools, while more non-family setups can mean flexible housing and diverse living styles. For renters, this can signal what kinds of homes are common and can help you figure out if the area matches your lifestyle.

Housing in Polk City

The housing landscape of Polk City

Polk City's housing consists of 2,231 units, with 79.4% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 13.9% and offer a more compact, shared living style.

Housing units
2,231
8.3% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 1,771 79.4%
1 unit, attached 311 13.9%
3 or 4 units 82 3.7%
20 to 49 units 67 3%
Homes built since 2020
227
81.6% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Polk City

In Polk City, the median construction year is 2004. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 21.7% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 26.9% between 2010 and 2019, and 10.2% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 87 3.9% 70.6%
Built between 1950 and 1959 71 3.2% -5.3%
Built between 1960 and 1969 96 4.3% -30.4%
Built between 1970 and 1979 209 9.4% 54.8%
Built between 1980 and 1989 83 3.7% -1.2%
Built between 1990 and 1999 372 16.7% 36.3%
Built between 2000 and 2009 485 21.7% 0.4%
Built between 2010 and 2019 601 26.9% -13.5%
Built in 2020 or later 227 10.2% 81.6%
As a renter, knowing when homes were built helps you understand the potential condition and design of rental units. Newer builds may have more contemporary layouts, while older homes can offer character or larger lots, depending on the area.

Polk City occupancy rates

Out of the 2,184 occupied housing units in Polk City, 89.2% are owner-occupied, while 10.8% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 2.1% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
2,184
7.5% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
237
Owner occupied
1,947
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 237 10.8% 16.2%
Owner occupied 1,947 89.2% 6.5%
Unoccupied housing units
2.1%
Unoccupied housing units refer to homes that are currently without residents—whether they're waiting for renters or owners, used seasonally, or simply unclaimed. A higher share of empty homes may mean more housing availability, while a low number can reflect a tighter market with more competition. This, along with the renter-vs.-owner mix, helps paint a clearer picture of what types of housing and services are likely to be available in the area.

Polk City housing costs

Housing costs in Polk City come to a median of $1,748 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $782.

Median housing costs per month
$1,748/month
This figure sums up typical monthly housing costs for all households in the area. If you own, it includes mortgage payments in addition to property taxes, insurance and HOA fees. If you rent, it accounts for rent plus extras like utilities. It’s useful for seeing how local living expenses stack up compared to other places.
Median gross rent in Polk City
$782/month
Gross rent gives a more complete look at what renters actually pay, including not just base rent, but also utilities and fees. It’s a key number for evaluating rental affordability in your area of interest and understanding how it compares to nearby locations.

Education in Polk City

Polk City education at a glance

About 22.8% of the population in Polk City went to high school, while 17.7% pursued college studies. Another 17.9% earned an associate degree and 24.5% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 17% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
High school diploma 994 22.8% 20.3%
College diploma 772 17.7% -6.0%
Associate degree 781 17.9% 24.8%
Bachelor's degree 1,069 24.5% -9.7%
Graduate degree 740 17% 14.4%
A community’s education mix can offer insights into the local economy and housing market. Higher levels of education often align with more job opportunities and stable incomes, which can increase demand for homes and influence both rent prices and rental availability.

Income in Polk City

How much people earn in Polk City

The average annual household income in Polk City was $152,452 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -4.9% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $164,389, reflecting a +0.8% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Polk City
$152,452/year
-4.9% year-over-year change
Median household income in Polk City
$164,389/year
0.8% year-over-year change

Polk City income by age

In Polk City, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $152,344. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $191,615 overall. Overall, 93.2% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $152,344 -5.6%
45 - 64 $191,615 2.8%
Over 65 $74,417 -26.2%
Above poverty level
5,515
Below poverty level
404
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 5,515 93.2% 1.9%
Below poverty level 404 6.8% 26.6%

Employment in Polk City

Workforce and job types in Polk City

The job market in Polk City is powered by 3,195 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 76.2% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 23.8% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 8.5% run their own businesses, 68.5% are employed by private companies, and 16.1% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
3,195
-3.0% year-over-year change
White collar
2,435
Blue collar
760
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 2,435 76.2% -4.1%
Blue collar 760 23.8% 0.9%
Employer type
Self employees
8.5%
Private companies
68.5%
Governmental workers
16.1%
Not for profit companies
6.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 272 8.5% 12.9%
Private companies 2,189 68.5% -7.4%
Governmental workers 514 16.1% 10.1%
Not for profit companies 220 6.9% -0.9%
Unemployment rate
3.2%
56.7% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Polk City stands at 3.2%, representing the share of the workforce currently without a job and actively looking for one.

For renters, the unemployment rate helps paint a picture of job security and financial stability in the area. Rates around 4% to 5% are considered typical. A lower-than-average rate might suggest strong job prospects and a thriving local economy, while a higher rate could hint at fewer opportunities—both useful to consider when planning a move.

Transportation in Polk City

How people get around in Polk City

Commuting methods vary: 77.6% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 0.4% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 2,467 77.6% -8.4%
Walk 13 0.4% 0.0%
Understanding how locals get to work can help you plan your own routine. High car usage might mean you’ll need a vehicle, while strong public transit or walkability could save you the hassle. Commute times also play a big role in quality of life—shorter trips can give you more time for the things you enjoy.

What is the median and average household income in Polk City by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
50226 7,759 2,741 $153,011 $168,386

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FAQs about Polk City demographics 

What is the total population of Polk City?

Polk City has a total population of 6,037 residents, according to the latest release from the U.S. Census Bureau: the 2019-2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates. This figure changed by +3.5% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Polk City?

The gender ratio in Polk City is as follows:
  • 51.2% males (3,092 residents)
  • 48.8% females (2,945 residents)

What is the median age in Polk City?

The median age in Polk City is 39.1.

What is the age distribution of the population in Polk City?

The age distribution in Polk City is as follows:
  • Under 15: 23.6% (1,425 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 8.6% (516 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 24.8% (1,498 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 28.6% (1,724 residents)
  • Over 65: 14.5% (874 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Polk City?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Polk City is as follows:
  • White: 96.4% (5,820 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.2% (10 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0% (0 residents)
  • Asian: 0% (0 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 3% (182 residents)
  • Other: 0.4% (25 residents)

What percentage of the population in Polk City are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 98.6% of the population in Polk City.

How many housing units are there in Polk City?

There are 2,231 housing units in Polk City, reflecting a +8.3% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in Polk City and what is the average household size?

Polk City has a total of 2,184 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Polk City?

Polk City has a median household income of $164,389, representing a +0.8% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Polk City?

The employment rate is 96.8% in Polk City, with a workforce of 3,195 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 76.2% (2,435 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 23.8% (760 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 8.5% (272 residents)
  • Private companies: 68.5% (2,189 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 16.1% (514 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 6.9% (220 residents)

Data source & methodology

The demographic data on this page was sourced from the latest U.S. Census Bureau release—the 2019–2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates.

The information, issued annually, is compiled and published by the Point2Homes Research Team as soon as new data becomes available.

No representation, guarantee, or warranty is made concerning the accuracy or completeness of modified or aggregated information for particular areas.

Page last updated: September 2025